Lambourn Dakota Building, Lambourn

Project Overview
Glencar is delivering the Dakota Building, a 120,000 sq ft logistics warehouse with ancillary office accommodation and a publicly accessible museum for Walker Logistics at Lambourn. The development marks Glencar’s first project for the client and provides a modern distribution facility alongside a bespoke heritage space commemorating the site’s history as part of RAF and USAAF Membury Airfield during the Second World War.

The scheme has been designed to combine operational efficiency with strong environmental performance and architectural quality.

Glencar’s Role
Appointed under a Design & Build contract, Glencar is responsible for the full construction of the warehouse, offices, museum building and associated external works, including significant enabling and ground improvement works.

Scope of Works
Warehouse & Office Accommodation
Construction of a high-quality logistics warehouse with integrated ancillary office space designed to support Walker Logistics’ expanding operations.

Museum Facility
Delivery of a publicly accessible museum space, carefully integrated into the wider development to celebrate the site’s aviation heritage while complementing its modern commercial use.

Groundworks & Enabling Works
Extensive enabling works including approximately 14,000m³ of cut and fill, ground stabilisation and vibro stone column installation to prepare the site for construction.

External Works
Provision of access roads, car parking, landscaping and service infrastructure to support both operational and visitor requirements.

Sustainability & ESG
The development targets BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A+ ratings. Sustainability measures include a fabric-first design approach, extensive rooflights to maximise natural daylight, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, air source heat pumps and roof-mounted solar PV. The scheme is designed to achieve zero-carbon emissions from both regulated and unregulated energy use, supporting Walker Logistics’ environmental objectives.

Technical & Delivery Challenges
Delivering a logistics facility and public museum within a single coordinated programme requires careful sequencing, stakeholder management and technical integration. Significant ground remediation and stabilisation works have also been critical to ensuring long-term performance of the building platform.

The Outcome
Upon completion in February 2026, the Dakota Building will provide Walker Logistics with a high-quality, future-proofed distribution hub, combining strong sustainability credentials with a distinctive architectural identity and a meaningful connection to the site’s historic past.